Peru Mountaineering Expedition – Urus, Ishinca & Tocllaraju

Andes Trekking & Hiking Adventures

Peru Mountaineering Expedition – Urus, Ishinca & Tocllaraju

Perú

DURATION15 Days
PRICE FROM$9,495.00USD

ABOUT THIS TOUR

Experience Peru Mountaineering Expedition – Urus, Ishinca & Tocllaraju

15-Day Peru Mountaineering Expedition – Urus, Ishinca & Tocllaraju
Discover the spectacular Cordillera Blanca in Peru on an unforgettable 15-day mountaineering expedition featuring three remarkable Andean peaks: Urus, Ishinca and Tocllaraju.
Located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes near Huaraz, the Cordillera Blanca is one of South America's most celebrated mountaineering destinations, renowned for its towering snow-covered summits, dramatic glaciers, turquoise alpine lakes and breathtaking mountain landscapes.
This Peru climbing expedition combines high-altitude trekking, progressive acclimatization, glacier climbing and challenging alpine ascents, offering an extraordinary opportunity to explore the mountains of the Cordillera Blanca.
From the scenic valleys surrounding Ishinca Base Camp to the glaciated slopes of Urus, Ishinca and Tocllaraju, every stage of the expedition introduces new challenges and opportunities to develop your high-altitude mountaineering experience.
Designed for physically prepared adventurers with suitable mountaineering experience, this journey offers an exciting combination of technical climbing, mountain exploration and authentic expedition life in the Peruvian Andes.

Explore Peru's Cordillera Blanca – A World-Class Mountaineering Destination
The Cordillera Blanca is one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in South America and an internationally recognized destination for high-altitude mountaineering, glacier climbing and alpine expeditions.
Located within Peru's Ancash region, near the mountain city of Huaraz, this extraordinary range features numerous snow-covered summits, impressive glaciers and dramatic high-altitude valleys.
The Cordillera Blanca is home to Huascarán (6,768 m), Peru's highest mountain, along with internationally recognized climbing objectives such as Alpamayo, Pisco, Ishinca and Tocllaraju.
Its combination of accessible mountain valleys, challenging alpine routes and remarkable scenery makes the region an exceptional destination for mountaineers seeking demanding adventures in the Andes.
During this 15-day Cordillera Blanca climbing expedition, you will experience three distinctive mountain objectives that combine altitude exposure, technical preparation and increasingly demanding climbing challenges.

Climb Three Iconic Peaks in the Peruvian Andes

Urus – Your First High-Altitude Climbing Challenge
Begin your mountain objectives with Urus, a spectacular peak in the Cordillera Blanca that offers remarkable views of surrounding glaciated mountains.
The ascent provides an opportunity to become familiar with the high-altitude environment, develop confidence on mountain terrain and evaluate your physical response to elevation.
Depending on the selected route and prevailing conditions, the climb may involve rocky terrain, snow or glacier travel.
Surrounded by extraordinary Andean scenery, the Urus ascent represents an important stage in your Peru mountaineering adventure.

Ishinca – Glacier Climbing in the Cordillera Blanca
Continue your expedition with an ascent of Ishinca, one of the Cordillera Blanca's well-known mountaineering objectives.
The mountain offers a rewarding combination of high-altitude climbing, snow-covered slopes and spectacular panoramic views of neighboring Andean peaks.
During the ascent, apply essential mountaineering techniques while gaining further experience in glaciated mountain environments.
The Ishinca climb provides valuable preparation for the more demanding technical and physical challenges of Tocllaraju.

Tocllaraju – The Ultimate Alpine Climbing Objective
The final major mountain objective is Tocllaraju, an impressive glaciated peak rising to approximately 6,034 meters (19,797 feet) above sea level.
Recognized for its striking pyramidal profile and challenging alpine routes, Tocllaraju is a significant mountaineering objective in Peru's Cordillera Blanca.
The ascent can involve steep snow and ice, exposed glacier terrain and technical climbing sections, depending on the route and current mountain conditions.
Climbing Tocllaraju requires strong physical fitness, appropriate technical experience, suitable acclimatization and the ability to perform in demanding high-altitude environments.
If weather, glacier conditions, individual readiness and route safety permit, the summit attempt offers an extraordinary opportunity to experience one of the Cordillera Blanca's most impressive alpine environments.
Summit success is never guaranteed, and mountain safety always takes priority.

Prepare for Your Cordillera Blanca Mountaineering Expedition
A successful high-altitude mountaineering expedition in Peru begins long before you arrive in the mountains.
This 15-day climbing adventure is physically demanding and requires cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, mental preparation and familiarity with challenging mountain environments.
The expedition combines high-altitude trekking, mountain approaches, glacier travel and technical climbing objectives.
Proper preparation helps you manage sustained physical effort, recover between demanding days and enjoy the extraordinary landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.
Training, nutrition, equipment selection, acclimatization and an understanding of mountain weather are essential components of expedition readiness.

Training Program – Build Endurance for High-Altitude Mountaineering
We recommend beginning a structured physical training program at least two months before departure, or earlier if your current fitness level requires additional preparation.
Although muscular strength is important for mountaineering, cardiovascular endurance and the ability to sustain prolonged physical activity should be major priorities.

Recommended Physical Preparation
1. Progressive Hiking and Mountain Walking
Begin with regular walks and progressively increase distance, elevation gain and duration.
Whenever possible, train on mountain trails, hills or varied terrain that resembles the conditions you may encounter during your Cordillera Blanca climbing expedition.

2. Backpack Training
Start hiking without additional weight and gradually introduce a backpack as your fitness improves.
Include several hikes lasting approximately 4–6 hours with a weighted backpack, adjusting the load to your ability and the equipment you expect to carry.
To reduce unnecessary stress during training descents, consider using removable water containers as additional weight.

3. Cardiovascular Endurance
Complement hiking with aerobic activities such as running, cycling, swimming or other endurance-based sports.
Consistent cardiovascular training helps develop the capacity required for extended mountain approaches and demanding summit days.

4. Long-Duration Mountain Training
If possible, complete at least two longer hikes lasting approximately 6–10 hours, ideally in mountainous terrain.
These sessions help you become familiar with prolonged physical effort, pacing, hydration and energy management.

5. Strength, Balance and Stability
Include appropriate exercises targeting your legs, core, balance and overall muscular stability.
These abilities are especially useful when moving over rocky trails, uneven terrain, snow and steep mountain slopes.

6. Technical Mountaineering Preparation
Because the expedition includes glaciated peaks and the technical objective of Tocllaraju, physical fitness alone is not sufficient.
Participants should have the technical climbing experience appropriate to the selected routes, including relevant snow, ice, crampon and rope skills.
Any additional training provided during the expedition should reinforce, rather than replace, essential prior experience.

Arrive Prepared for Your Peru Climbing Expedition
The objective of training is not simply to become stronger.
It is to arrive in Peru ready to move efficiently, manage your energy, respond appropriately to physical challenges and enjoy the extraordinary environment of the Cordillera Blanca.
During the days immediately before departure, prioritize adequate sleep, recovery, hydration and balanced nutrition.
Avoid unusually demanding training sessions immediately before the expedition.

High-Altitude Acclimatization in the Peruvian Andes
Acclimatization is an essential consideration during any Cordillera Blanca mountaineering expedition.
As elevation increases, reduced oxygen availability places additional demands on the body and can affect physical performance.
The expedition's progressive mountain activities provide opportunities

YOUR JOURNEY

Itinerary

DAY 1

Arrival in Lima, Peru | Welcome to Your Mountaineering Expedition

Welcome to Lima, Peru, the starting point of your unforgettable 15-day Cordillera Blanca mountaineering expedition. Upon arrival at Jorge Chávez International Airport, meet the Ecuadorian Alpine Institute expedition team for your transfer to a hotel near the airport.
Your first evening is dedicated to rest, recovery from international travel and preparation for the journey into the spectacular Peruvian Andes. Get ready to discover one of South America's most remarkable high-altitude climbing destinations, where the summits of Urus, Ishinca and Tocllaraju await.
Overnight: Hotel in Lima.
DAY 2

Lima to Huaraz | Journey to Peru's Cordillera Blanca

Begin your journey toward Huaraz, the gateway to the Cordillera Blanca, one of Peru's most renowned regions for high-altitude trekking and mountaineering. Travel by private vehicle from Lima, passing through dramatic landscapes that gradually transition from Peru's arid coastal regions to the towering mountains of the Andes.
Stop for breakfast along the route before continuing toward the Andean highlands. As the road gains elevation, enjoy spectacular mountain scenery and, when visibility allows, distant views of the snow-covered peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.
After approximately 9–10 hours of travel, arrive in Huaraz, a vibrant mountain city and the principal starting point for many Peru climbing expeditions. Spend the evening exploring local markets, restaurants and traditional Peruvian cuisine while preparing for the adventures ahead.
Overnight: Hotel in Huaraz.
DAY 3

Huaraz Acclimatization | Local Market & Expedition Preparation

Enjoy a day of rest and initial high-altitude acclimatization in Huaraz, located at approximately 3,050 meters above sea level. This important preparation day allows your body to begin adjusting to the elevation before entering the higher mountain environments of the Cordillera Blanca.
Explore a traditional local market, where the expedition team purchases fresh fruits, vegetables and essential supplies for the upcoming climbing adventure. Discover authentic Andean culture, regional products and the atmosphere of this renowned Peruvian mountaineering destination.
The remainder of the day is dedicated to recovery, hydration and preparation for the upcoming Urus, Ishinca and Tocllaraju climbing expedition.
Overnight: Hotel in Huaraz.
DAY 4

Laguna Churup | Cordillera Blanca Acclimatization Hike

Begin your first mountain adventure with a spectacular acclimatization hike to Laguna Churup, one of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes near Huaraz. Travel to the trailhead and ascend through rugged Andean landscapes, rocky mountain trails and breathtaking alpine scenery.
The hike provides valuable altitude exposure while introducing you to the dramatic terrain of the Cordillera Blanca in Peru. Along the route, enjoy panoramic views of surrounding mountains and the extraordinary natural environment of the Peruvian Andes.
After exploring the Laguna Churup area, descend and return to Huaraz for rest and recovery. In the evening, organize your climbing equipment, technical gear and clothing for the expedition into the Ishinca Valley.
Overnight: Hotel in Huaraz.
DAY 5

Ishinca Valley Trek | Huascarán National Park Base Camp

Travel from Huaraz to the village of Collón, the starting point for your trekking adventure into the spectacular Ishinca Valley in Huascarán National Park. Complete the necessary park entrance procedures before beginning the approach to base camp.
Follow scenic mountain trails through beautiful Andean valleys, native vegetation and impressive glacial landscapes. Pack animals transport expedition supplies and group equipment while you hike toward the base camp surrounded by some of the Cordillera Blanca's most remarkable peaks.
The trek takes approximately 6–7 hours, depending on trail conditions, weather and group pace. Upon arrival, establish camp near the river and enjoy extraordinary views of the surrounding mountains.
This first night in the Ishinca Valley marks the beginning of your authentic Cordillera Blanca mountaineering expedition.
Overnight: Ishinca Valley Base Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch & Dinner.
DAY 6

Ishinca Valley | Acclimatization & Mountaineering Skills Training

Spend the day in the spectacular Ishinca Valley, continuing your high-altitude acclimatization while reviewing essential skills for climbing the glaciated peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.
Under professional mountain guidance, participate in practical mountaineering and glacier safety training adapted to the group's experience and prevailing conditions.
Training activities may include rock climbing techniques, rope management, glacier travel procedures, crevasse-rescue concepts, self-arrest techniques, movement on snow and ice, altitude awareness, route planning and mountain weather assessment.
This important preparation day helps reinforce technical skills and team coordination before the upcoming Urus, Ishinca and Tocllaraju summit attempts.
Return to base camp for dinner, equipment organization and rest.
Overnight: Ishinca Valley Base Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch & Dinner.
DAY 7

Urus Summit Attempt | First Cordillera Blanca Mountain Ascent

Begin your first major climbing objective with an early morning ascent of Urus, one of the spectacular peaks surrounding Peru's Ishinca Valley.
After breakfast and equipment preparation, follow the mountain route through high-altitude Andean terrain, progressing toward rocky sections and potentially snow-covered slopes, depending on the selected route and conditions.
As you gain elevation, enjoy breathtaking views of Ishinca, Tocllaraju and the surrounding Cordillera Blanca mountains. This ascent provides valuable experience in mountain movement, endurance and altitude management before the more demanding objectives ahead.
If weather, route safety and individual readiness permit, reach the summit area and celebrate your first major mountain achievement of the expedition.
After the summit attempt, descend carefully toward Ishinca Valley Base Camp. The round trip generally takes approximately 10–11 hours, depending on conditions and group pace.
Overnight: Ishinca Valley Base Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch & Dinner.
DAY 8

Trek to Ishinca High Camp | High-Altitude Expedition Preparation

Continue your Peru mountaineering expedition with the ascent toward Ishinca High Camp, located at approximately 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), depending on the selected campsite and current mountain conditions.
After breakfast and equipment organization, prepare the essential climbing gear, food and camping supplies required for the next stages of the expedition.
Following lunch, begin the uphill trek through increasingly rugged alpine terrain, surrounded by impressive glaciers and snow-covered peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.
Upon reaching high camp, establish the campsite, organize technical equipment and prepare for the following day's glacier climbing training.
Spend the evening in an extraordinary high-altitude mountain environment, preparing physically and mentally for the Ishinca summit attempt.
Overnight: Ishinca High Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch & Dinner.
DAY 9

Ishinca Glacier School | Technical Mountaineering & Ice Training

Dedicate the day to glacier climbing and technical mountaineering training in Peru's Cordillera Blanca. After breakfast, move onto suitable glacier terrain under the supervision of your mountain guides.
Practice and reinforce essential techniques for safe movement through snow and ice, including glacier travel, rope systems, snow climbing, self-arrest, crevasse-rescue procedures and high-altitude mountain safety.
The training provides an opportunity to refine technical awareness, improve rope team coordination and prepare for the demands of the upcoming Ishinca glacier climbing expedition.
Training activities are adapted to the group's experience, mountain conditions and available safe terrain.
Return to camp for an early dinner, equipment preparation and rest before the next day's summit attempt.
Overnight: Ishinca High Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch & Dinner.
DAY 10

Nevado Ishinca Summit | Glacier Climbing in the Peruvian Andes

Begin your Nevado Ishinca summit attempt with an early wake-up around 2:00 a.m., followed by breakfast and final equipment checks. Depart at approximately 3:00 a.m. for an unforgettable high-altitude glacier climbing adventure.
Follow the selected route across snow-covered and glaciated terrain, applying the mountaineering techniques practiced during the expedition.
As the morning light illuminates the Cordillera Blanca, enjoy spectacular views of surrounding Andean peaks, including the impressive Ranrapalca and Tocllaraju massifs.
If weather, glacier conditions and team readiness allow, reach the summit of Nevado Ishinca, completing another significant objective of your Peru climbing expedition.
After the summit attempt, descend safely toward Ishinca High Camp. Depending on conditions, available daylight and group energy, continue toward Ishinca Valley Base Camp or spend another night at high camp.
Overnight: Camp, according to descent conditions and the expedition plan.
Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch & Dinner.
DAY 11

Ishinca Valley | Recovery & Tocllaraju Expedition Preparation

After the demanding Ishinca ascent, enjoy an important day of recovery and preparation in the Ishinca Valley.
Rest, hydrate and allow your body time to recover while continuing to assess your response to altitude. Review technical equipment, organize food supplies and prepare the climbing gear required for the expedition's principal objective: Nevado Tocllaraju (6,034 m).
Your mountain guides will evaluate weather forecasts, route conditions and team readiness before confirming the next stage of the expedition.
Enjoy the peaceful Andean environment and, where appropriate, opportunities to learn about the local mountain culture.
This preparation day is essential before attempting one of the Cordillera Blanca's more demanding technical alpine climbs.
Overnight: Ishinca Valley Base Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch & Dinner.
DAY 12

Tocllaraju High Camp | Approach to the 6,034 m Summit

Begin the approach toward Tocllaraju High Camp, preparing for the ultimate climbing challenge of your 15-day Cordillera Blanca mountaineering expedition.
After breakfast, leave Ishinca Valley Base Camp and ascend through rugged rocky moraines and spectacular high-altitude terrain toward the glacier.
Continue climbing toward the high camp at approximately 5,244 meters (17,205 feet), surrounded by extraordinary views of glaciated peaks, mountain valleys and alpine landscapes.
Upon arrival, establish camp and organize the technical equipment required for the Tocllaraju summit attempt. Review the climbing route, glacier conditions, rope procedures and essential mountain safety considerations with your guides.
After an early dinner, rest before the demanding overnight ascent.
Overnight: Tocllaraju High Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch & Dinner.
DAY 13

Tocllaraju Summit Attempt | 6,034 m – Technical Alpine Climbing

Experience the ultimate objective of your Peru mountaineering expedition with a challenging ascent of Nevado Tocllaraju (6,034 m / 19,797 ft), one of the Cordillera Blanca's most impressive glaciated peaks.
Wake at approximately 1:00 a.m. for breakfast and final technical equipment checks before beginning the climb around 2:00 a.m.
The ascent follows glaciated mountain terrain toward the more demanding upper sections of Tocllaraju. Depending on the selected route and current conditions, the climb may involve exposed glacier travel, steep snow and ice slopes, and technical sections approaching 60 degrees.
This demanding alpine objective requires strong physical endurance, appropriate technical climbing experience, effective rope team coordination and careful decision-making at high altitude.
If weather, glacier stability, route safety and individual readiness permit, reach the Tocllaraju summit at 6,034 meters, where extraordinary panoramic views reveal the spectacular snow-covered mountains of Peru's Cordillera Blanca.
After the summit attempt, descend carefully toward Tocllaraju High Camp and, if conditions and timing allow, continue toward Ishinca Valley Base Camp.
Overnight: Camp, according to descent conditions and the expedition plan.
Meals: Breakfast, Box Lunch & Dinner.
DAY 14

Ishinca Valley to Huaraz | Return & Expedition Celebration

Conclude your mountain activities with the return trek through the spectacular Ishinca Valley, surrounded by the dramatic peaks and beautiful landscapes of Huascarán National Park.
Descend toward the road and continue by vehicle to Huaraz, the mountaineering capital of Peru's Cordillera Blanca region.
After several demanding days of high-altitude trekking, glacier climbing and alpine ascents, enjoy a well-deserved opportunity to shower, rest and recover.
In the evening, celebrate your Urus, Ishinca and Tocllaraju mountaineering expedition with a farewell dinner featuring traditional Peruvian cuisine and opportunities to enjoy the local atmosphere.
Reflect on the extraordinary mountain landscapes, technical challenges and unforgettable experiences shared throughout your journey.
Overnight: Hotel in Huaraz.
Meals: Breakfast.
DAY 15

Huaraz to Lima | End of Your Peru Mountaineering Expedition

After breakfast, depart Huaraz by private bus or minibus for the return journey to Lima, concluding your unforgettable 15-day Peru mountaineering expedition in the Cordillera Blanca.
Travel through the spectacular landscapes of the Peruvian Andes before descending toward the Pacific coastal region.
Depending on your international flight schedule, continue to Jorge Chávez International Airport or arrange an additional overnight stay in Lima.
Your expedition concludes with lasting memories of the spectacular Cordillera Blanca, the mountain challenges of Urus, Ishinca and Tocllaraju, and the extraordinary experience of high-altitude mountaineering in Peru.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Included

  • Our Ecuadorian alpine team meet you In Lima at your arrival time
  • Welcome in Lima City and short briefing for the second day Lima Huaraz.
  • Airport transfers in and out.
  • Hotels (14 Night Double bed room occupancy)
  • Bilingual certified Mountain guide. UIAGIM/ASEGUIM members guide.
  • All private transportation vehicles.
  • 3 meals at day more café tea and all drinking on the base camp, meals while on the climbing trip. (If you have a special diet, no problem) (Meals is included like on the itinerary)
  • Camping gear, coking tents, Professional chef to coking and services safe food, all the facilities on the camping site area.
  • Muleteer: Responsible for loading and driving the pack animals (donkeys or so)
  • Porters: Porters are required to transport loads from base camp to the high camps. They are responsible for carrying group gear, including tents, food, and technical climbing equipment. Each participant must carry and be responsible for their own personal gear.
  • Donkey’s for carrying the load
  • Group climbing equipment (ropes, carabiners, pickets, ice screws)
  • Rope and techniques climbing gear.
  • All National Parks Permits.
  • Collective First aid kit.

PLEASE NOTE

Not Included

  • Food and Beverages on non-climbing days. (Dinner and lunches In Huaraz especially)
  • Personal Insurance.
  • Emergency rescue or evacuation.
  • Single Room Supplement $.500,00.
  • All International flight to Lima and round trip.
  • Personal First aid kit.
  • Personal climbing gear.
  • Additional expenses resulting from leaving the expedition before completing the itinerary.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Typing.

GOOD TO KNOW

Important Information

  • SEASON TIME EACHE YEAR USUALLY ON MAY-JUNE-JULY

Ready for your next adventure?

Let’s Plan Your Journey

Contact Us